Travel businesses that are due to renew their ATOL this month are being urged to submit their renewal applications well before 30 September 2021 to avoid a delay to processing.

More than 45% (510 of the potential 1,127) of travel companies are yet to apply to renew their ATOL.

The Civil Aviation Authority says it understands the issues the travel industry is facing, but says it has a duty to protect consumers and make sure that it has complete and accurate financial information before processing a renewal.

Michael Budge, Head of ATOL Licensing at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “We would like to thank travel companies that have already submitted their application and supporting information for renewal in good time, as well as engaging with us throughout the process.

“We understand the challenges the travel industry is facing, but travel companies that have yet to submit their renewals are urged to do so as soon as possible. The earlier they submit, the more we can engage and support in the licence renewal process whilst acting in the best interest of consumers.

“We are mindful that applicants are looking for quick decisions, but reflective of the industry’s current financial challenges, things can take longer. Companies that apply late risk a delay in having their ATOL licence processed.”

Over a quarter of applicants in March 2021 applied in the last 10 days leading up to the renewal deadline, which created challenges for both the travel company and Civil Aviation Authority.